Gerardo Martino is FC Barcelona’s new coach

UPDATE (7/23/2013): FC Barcelona signed Gerardo Martino to a two-year deal and not a three-year deal as previously reported.

Gerardo “Tata” Martino of Argentina signed a three-year deal to coach FC Barcelona. He will be replacing Tito Vilanova at the helm of the Catalan club.

Vilanova stepped down because his cancer treatments would not allow him to be fully committed as coach of the Spanish giants.

Gerardo Martino, former coach of Argentine champions Newell’s Old Boys, will bring along two of his assistants.

Spanish publication Marca reported, “The former Newell’s Old Boys manager will come to the Catalan club accompanied by two of his regular aides, Elvio Paolorroso and Jorge Pautasso.”

Start striker Lionel Messi has always been a fan of Martino’s.

In a 2012 interview with Argentine portal Olé, the striker stated his respect for Martino, and thinks the Argentine is a great coach.

Will Martino change Barcelona’s famed playing style?

FC Barcelona has been one of the most successful team’s of this millennium thus far. The Spanish outfit has won six La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey titles, one Spanish Super Cup, two European Super Cups and three UEFA Champions League.